Students show gratitude for soldiers

LACKAWANNA, N.Y. (WIVB) - With the tragedy at Fort Hood fresh on their minds, local veterans said a special event is helping them to get through this difficult time.

On Friday, Global Concepts Charter School in Lackawanna invited local service members for a Veteran's Day ceremony.

Guest soldiers from the 107th airlift wing out of Niagara Falls were recognized for their commitment to serving their country.

Students read thank you letters and expressed their gratitude during a special assembly.

The Maritime Drill Team and Color Guard performed the Star Spangled Banner.

Master Sergeant Mark Hyduke spent time at Fort Hood in 1997.

He says Friday's ceremony is uplifting and heals wounded hearts.

"Any time there's an action in a combat type situation and a hostile situation, you deal with that in a different manner, but this type comes out of the clear blue sky, as it were and you can never truly be prepared so, anything along these lines helps you get through these types of situations," he said.

A school luncheon followed the Veteran's Day ceremony.